THE INFLUENCE OF CONFORMATION ON FORE AND HIND-LIMB KINEMATICS OF THETROTTING DUTCH WARMBLOOD HORSE

To objectively evaluate the influence of conformation on equine kinema tics a study was undertaken in which joint angles of horses at square stance representing conformation were related to their limb kinematics at the trot. A modified CODA-3 apparatus was used to record joint ang les of a group (n=24) of young adult Dutch Warmblood horses at square stance and at the trot on a treadmill. It appeared that the forelimb o f horses with a more horizontal scapula moved in a more protracted pos ition. This compares with a more elegant gait in dressage horses and a more efficient forelimb technique in showjumpers. More flexed shoulde r and elbow joints were related to a longer stance duration facilitati ng collection in the forelimbs. A more vertical pelvis and a more flex ed hip and stifle joints induced less retraction and more pelvic rotat ion, leading to more collection in the hind limbs. However, a more ext ended carpal and tarsal joint resulted in more extension of these join ts during the stance phase. This predisposes for joint overloading, wh ich eventually may result in lameness and early retirement of the perf ormance horse.